Analysis of spore type and concentration in association with ‘Vitis vinifera’

Abstract

'Vitis vinifera' is the primary source of wine production and it is grown worldwide. The crop is attacked by a wide range of fungal pathogens, resulting in yield losses and weak resistance and durability of the vineyard. A single grapevine can get infected several times with fungal pathogens, and symptoms may appear after the fungus has been well established; making knowledge about epidemiology imperative. With chemical controls such as sodium arsenate and benomyl being banned, knowledge about fungal pathogen diversity, factors promoting disease development and sources of inoculum reservoirs is very important to prevent or control diseases. This study includes the use of whirling arm traps to capture spores, followed by examination of the samples in the laboratory under a light microscope. Such research is important because it investigates factors that enhance spore density; meteorological and environmental aspects as well as management practices. The findings included that the prevailing wind as well as the vineyard situated in the woodland, accumulated more spore quantity and types. Throughout the data collections 15 taxa were identified; spores of which are associated with extensive diseases such as powdery mildew, downy mildew and grey mould.